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New Sligo Bridge Included in Governor's Transportation Program

Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam and Transportation Commissioner John Schroer have released a three-year transportation program, which includes replacement of Sligo bridge in DeKalb County.

Sligo bridge, to be funded with passage of the state's 2011-12 budget, is among more than 152 individual projects in 59 Tennessee counties included in the three year program which provides $1.7 billion for highways and bridges. The proposal has been presented to the Tennessee General Assembly.

Transportation projects in TDOT's Region Two, which includes DeKalb County, will be funded through TDOT's state and federal aid program. TDOT officials have previously said that the estimated cost to replace Sligo bridge is $30 million dollars.

The new Sligo bridge is expected to be erected some sixty feet to the north of the existing bridge and plans are for traffic to continue on the old bridge while the new structure is under construction. Right of way acquisition with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and any other adjoining landowners must also be resolved.

State Senator Mae Beavers told WJLE Thursday that the Governor's announcement is great news for DeKalb County. "I'm delighted that Sligo bridge is included in the budget. I'm further delighted that this Commissioner of Transportation has committed to not using bonds, not borrowing money. I think that's important especially with the way the economy is right now. That was a big issue in some of our campaigns and I'm happy to announce that not one penny has been borrowed. All of the money thus far to fix the bridges and roads have come from the federal and state money. I'm delighted that Sligo bridge has been included and I think the people of DeKalb County are going to be happy that finally we're getting some relief on the Sligo bridge," said Senator Beavers.

"A quality transportation system is vital to the continued growth of the state's economy and increasing job opportunities for our residents," said Governor Haslam. "The commissioner and I believe this three-year program balances the needs of communities across the state and makes solid investments in Tennessee's infrastructure."

"Taking a multi-modal approach to transportation planning allows TDOT to be responsive to the citizens of this state, tailoring projects to provide the greatest benefits in both our urban and rural areas," said TDOT Commissioner John Schroer. "The department will address a number of needs through this three-year program, including congestion relief, improving access to communities, and the replacement or repair of dozens of aging bridges."